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Pittsburgh Police FCU sets up fund for slain officers

PITTSBURGH, Pa. (4/8/09)--Greater Pittsburgh Police FCU is accepting donations from across the nation on behalf of three Pittsburgh officers who were killed in an ambush on April 4 while responding to a domestic dispute. The $45 million asset credit union worked with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 1 to set up the Pittsburgh Fallen Hero Fund to accept donations, according to CEO Sandy Lazzara. All money collected with go to the families of Officers Eric Kelly, Stephen Mayhle and Paul Sciullo II. Lazzara told News Now that Kelly and Mahley were credit union members who were familiar faces to the staff. Kelly was known for offering a friendly hug, while Mahley was the last member in the credit union lobby conducting business on the day before he died. “It’s a shock for our entire community,” Lazzara said. She said the community has responded generously with donations “pouring in” from individuals as well as prominent businesses such as the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team and the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team. To date, the largest donations have come from fellow law enforcement officers throughout Allegheny County, although law enforcement organizations from coast-to-coast have called for information on how to contribute. Lazzara said she is thankful for the prayers and support that have been directed to the credit union and its 5,500 members. She is using the widespread media attention directed to the credit union for its role in collecting donations to express appreciation for law enforcement officers. “I want to thank our officers for being on that street 24/7 every day,” Lazzara says. “That’s the most important, because the public only pays attention when a tragedy happens.” Contributions should be made payable to the Pittsburgh Fallen Hero Fund and mailed care of Greater Pittsburgh Police FCU, 1338 Chartiers Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15220.